Tamsulosin CR

What is this medication? 

Tamsulosin, Flomax 
Alpha-1 Blocker 

Tamsulosin/Flomax is officially indicted for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). It may also  be prescribed off-label for use in chronic prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, ureteral calculi  (kidney stone) expulsion. (may also be used for conditions not listed) 

How does this medication work? 

Tamsulosin/Flomax antagonizes the alpha-1A adrenoreceptor in the prostate which decreases smooth  muscle tone in both the bladder neck and prostate thereby increasing urinary flow 

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: 0.4-0.8mg divided into one or two daily doses 

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole, take consistently at same times each day, usually 30 minutes after a meal unless otherwise directed.

You Need to Avoid: Crushing or breaking the tablet or capsule can release all of the medication at once  rather than slowly over an extended period resulting in high risk of adverse reactions.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting Tamsulosin/Flomax make sure your physician is aware of any allergies (especially Sulfa)  or medications you currently take, if you have heart failure, prostate cancer, are pregnant, or  breastfeeding 

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication? 

Orthostatic hypotension (usually only occurs for first few doses if at all), headache, dizziness, retrograde  ejaculation, infection, rhinitis 

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones.